The Truth Shall Set You Free?

"For you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free" John 8:32 
In his book 'How do you kill 11 Million People?' Andy Andrews says, "If it is correct that 'you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free,' then is it possible that if you don't know the truth, its absence can place you in bondage?"

In teaching our College and Career Sunday School class, we have been encouraging them to memorize scripture. Why? When you tuck the word of God in your heart, He is there. Sometimes verses will bubble up and you wonder where that came from. Young people don't understand that the older you get, the harder it is to 'remember'. But, if you have them already in you, the easier it is to recall them! 

In the scriptures, God reveals Himself to us, His character, His promises which stimulate our faith and trust. He comforts us, as well as commands us and demands our obedience.

History tells us of faithful saints that had the scriptures in their hearts and what was accomplished throughout their lives.  For instance, Fanny Crosby who was blind, began to memorize the scriptures when she was a child. By the time she was ten years old, she had memorized the first four books of the old Testament, as well as the four Gospels! This may be one reason she was able to write eight thousand beautiful hymns during her lifetime.

Corrie ten Boon noted that while imprisoned in the concentration camp, during World War II, they took away her Bible, but could not take away the scriptures stored in her heart. She said those scriptures gave her hope and endurance.

Several years ago, I remember attending a conference in Chattanooga, TN and met a lady from Dallas, TX. She felt God had laid it on her heart to memorize Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible. She had ridden from Dallas to Chattanooga with a friend, who said the whole way she heard Psalm 119! If her friend messed up, she started all over from the beginning! During the conference, this lady was asked to come up front and on the stage and quote what she could. Through the nerves and embarrassment, she recited Psalms 119:1-176 (the entire chapter!) without missing a word. She had tucked that chapter in her heart and her friend laughed and said that she too had learned most of it as well! 

The Apostle Paul wrote "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).


We learn how to live, be more Christ-like, find encouragement, and are challenged when we are in His Word. Bible quizzes are good for children to learn the scripture, but it is not a game when it comes to His Word. The Bible is given to us to instruct, correct and grow us. It is so we can become the people of God, so that His love and goodness can freely flow through us. 


If you feel it is IMPOSSIBLE to memorize the scripture, then just take the time to read His Word. Soak it up in your heart, let it speak to you. Prior to reading it, pray...asking Him to help you understand. The more you spend time with Him and His Word, the more you will grow in understanding. He wants to transform us to be more like Him. 


We serve a mighty God Who does not want us in bondage to anything here on earth. He wants to set us free! It is in Him and spending time with Him, that we will know the truth! 


Begin today a new walk with Him, in His word, whether by memory or reading. Be encouraged and know He is the Way. 


Share with us, let us know what is your favorite scripture? Let us all be in this together! 


Blessings,
gs